Australian Open 2022 - Rafael Nadal salutes 'important comeback' as he reaches Melbourne Summer Set final

Published 08/01/2022 at 19:11 GMT

Rafael Nadal was forced to take an extended break from competitive tennis when he withdrew from the sport with a foot injury back in August 2021. That time away was prolonged when he had to endure a bout of coronavirus in December, but he has now reached the Melbourne Summer Set final ahead of the Australian Open.

Rafael Nadal - ATP Melbourne

Image credit: Getty Images

Rafael Nadal described reaching the final of the Melbourne Summer Set as an ‘important comeback’ as he returned from his August 2021 injury.

A foot complaint prematurely ended his campaign last year and was then his absence was further delayed by a case of Covid-19 in December.

He beat Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori 6-4 7-5 in the semi-finals to set up a clash with Maxime Cressy.

02/01/2022 at 15:00

"It's an important comeback after five months outside of competition," the Spaniard said after his win.

"I need to do some things better on court, but it's step by step. My body is holding up and that's the main thing.

"I need matches to get back to 100%. I know my tennis isn't perfect, but it's about being patient and doing my best."

24-year-old American Cressy reached the final with an upset 7-5 7-6 (11-9) win over Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov.

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